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Dan is the grandson of the late Roy Fowler, the former world cross-country champion and European 10,000 metres bronze medalist.

Both boys play regular cricket for Leek at both junior and senior level.

Dan is an opening batsman and Sam, who is the son of Ashcombe Park cricketer Lee Slater, is an opening bowler. With the cricket season just past the half-way stage, Dan has scored more than 600 runs to date playing for Leek junior and senior teams.

CHECKLEY Cricket Club held a minute’s silence before Saturday’s game against Longton as a mark of respect for honorary life member Kath Beddow and former 1st XI captain Ian Mellor, who both died recently.

Checkley chairman Gavin Carr said: “Kath, who has sadly passed away at the age of 98, was probably the longest-serving member in our club’s history and was a regular, ever-present follower who will be deeply missed.

“Until recently, Kath has taken her seat in the clubhouse or outside, just around the corner of the pavilion steps every week of every season for most of her life.

“Ian has suddenly passed away at the age of 59, and was fondly known as Merv, because of his moustache [a likeness to that sported by Australian cricketing legend Mervyn Hughes].

“He was a terrific captain and created a team environment where people really enjoyed their sport and their friendship.

“He gave youngsters the encouragement and opportunity to shine, whilst having the competitive edge to try and win games.”